As a member of my local Combined Cadet Force, I participated in Cyber Centurion, a national cybersecurity competition hosted by Cyber Challenge UK and Northrop Grumman. This competition became a defining experience that ignited my passion for cybersecurity and demonstrated how technical skills could be applied in meaningful, competitive environments.
The competition format involved multiple qualifying rounds that began in October 2018, testing teams on various cybersecurity challenges including system hardening, vulnerability assessment, and incident response scenarios. The competition culminated in a national final event that brought together the top teams from across the United Kingdom.
Our performance throughout the qualifying rounds earned us a place in the national finals, where we competed against the best young cybersecurity talent in the country. We achieved second place nationally, a remarkable accomplishment that came with recognition from the event organisers, a cash prize, and a medal commemorating our achievement.
This early exposure to competitive cybersecurity not only validated my technical abilities but also revealed the practical applications of cybersecurity skills in protecting critical systems and infrastructure. The experience provided invaluable insights into the cybersecurity industry and established the foundation for my continued pursuit of excellence in this field.
Key Achievements & Learning Outcomes
National Recognition
Achieved 2nd place nationally in the Cyber Centurion 2019 competition, competing against teams from across the UK.
Technical Expertise
Developed practical skills in system hardening, vulnerability assessment, and cybersecurity incident response.
Team Collaboration
Worked effectively in a team environment under pressure, coordinating responses to complex cybersecurity challenges.
Career Foundation
This experience sparked my passion for cybersecurity and established the foundation for my career trajectory.
Industry Exposure
Gained early exposure to cybersecurity industry standards and practices through industry-sponsored events.
Competitive Excellence
Demonstrated ability to perform under pressure and compete at the highest levels in cybersecurity challenges.
Competition Journey
October 2018 - Qualifying Rounds Begin
Competition launched with initial qualifying rounds featuring various cybersecurity challenges.
2018-2019 - Progression Through Rounds
Successfully advanced through multiple qualifying rounds, demonstrating consistent performance.
2019 - National Finals Qualification
Qualified for the national finals, competing against the top teams from across the United Kingdom.
2019 - Second Place Nationally
Achieved second place in the national competition, earning recognition, a cash prize, and medal.
2020 - Return Competition
Competed again in Cyber Centurion 2020, reaching the finals once more at Olympic Park, London.
Long-term Impact
This experience gave me my passion for cybersecurity and showed me that I can use/develop cyber skills to be used in a beneficial way. The competition shaped my career trajectory and demonstrated the real-world applications of cybersecurity expertise. The skills, confidence, and industry connections gained through this experience continue to influence my professional development and academic pursuits.
Cyber Centurion teams 2019
Finalists and organisers 2020
Cyber Centurion 2020